Introduction to Information Design

The web development process is the chief subject of this book. Its corollary subject is the nature and role of information design in web development. The two subjects are inseparable. The web development process is designed to facilitate the skill of information design. The relationship between the web development process and the skill of information design is akin to the relationship between an operating room and the surgeon. The operating room (process) is an environment that contains all sorts of precise equipment. Within the room certain rules and procedures must be followed. Without the surgeon (skill), the environment and equipment of the operating room would not be very useful. Likewise the surgeon without the operating room might be able to perform some emergency procedures but would not be able to exercise the full extent of his skill.

One of the primary benefits of grayscreen prototyping is that it minimizes the need for an information design specialist. While the role of the information designer is important, the grayscreen prototype process actually reduces the overall dependence a project has on the unique skills of the information designer. It does not eliminate the dependence altogether, but reduces it by extracting the information design insights of the client and the development team during the process. The more people that review and contribute to the overall information design of a site, the more likely the structure will reflect the needs of site visitors. The grayscreen process brings together a broad range of perspectives, which enrich the site's design.

A team approach to information design works because, in reality, everyone has a bit of information design talent. Some have a technical bent and others have an intuitive sense of usability. Some are more logical and can review the site prototype for proper and consistent categorization. Because prototypes are developed by groups of people, many individuals can bear influence and contribute in unique ways that will perfect the final product.

Because of the close relationship between the skill of information design and the web development process, this section focuses on defining and fine-tuning the information design skills inherent in everyone. We are not writing to information designers, but rather to anyone who will have a role in the development of a website. This section will introduce you to the discipline of information design, touching on a few basic principles and presenting some practical tips for implementing information design. There are other helpful books on information design listed in the bibliography.